Hiyare Nature Reserve: Galle's Secret Rainforest Paradise

Just 30 minutes from Galle's beaches lies Hiyare Nature Reserve, a 600-acre protected rainforest catchment that offers:

• Serene paddle boat rides across the drinking water reservoir
• Untouched walking trails through rare lowland rainforest
• Exceptional biodiversity with 9 endemic bird species
• Zero vehicle access - pure silence broken only by nature's sounds

Why Nature Lovers Adore Hiyare

• More intimate than crowded Sinharaja
• Better wildlife spotting than Kottawa Forest
• Unique paddle boat access to hidden coves
• See Galle's water source in its natural state

Visitor Essentials

Getting There

• Location: Akmeemana Road (Turn right from Kottawa Forest route)
• From Galle: 15km via Baddegama Road (~30 min)
• Hours: 8AM-5PM (Last entry 4PM)
• Fees: $8 (Foreigners) / LKR 200 (Locals) - Includes boat

Must-Do Activities

1. Paddle Boat Safari (45 mins)
   • Glide past water monitor lizards and endemic fish
   • Best time: 8-10AM when birds are most active
2. Rainforest Walk (2km loop)
   • Spot Sambar deer and giant squirrels
   • Discover rare orchids and medicinal plants
3. Birdwatching Platform
   • Prime location for Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill and Crimson-backed Flameback

Wildlife Highlights

• Endemic Birds:
  • Sri Lanka Spurfowl
  • Legge's Flowerpecker
• Rare Aquatic Life:
  • Combtail Gourami (endemic fish)
  • Sri Lanka Rock Frog
• Giant Trees:
  • Hora (Dipterocarpus zeylanicus)
  • Milla (Vitex altissima)

Pro Tips for Visitors

• Wear: Quick-dry clothing and waterproof shoes
• Bring: Binoculars, zoom lens, leech socks (provided)
• Best Time: November-April (Dry season, better visibility)
• Unique Feature: The reservoir's pH-balanced water creates perfect reflections

Conservation Significance

• Protects Galle's primary drinking water source
• Serves as a genetic bank for endangered species
• No plastic policy - bring reusable bottles

Nearby Eco-Attractions

• Kottawa Forest (20 min) - More challenging trails
• Anagimala Ella (35 min) - Hidden waterfall
• Sinharaja Gate (1.5hr) - For serious rainforest explorers

Book a Guided Nature Experience

Want to spot rare wildlife with expert trackers? Sri Lanka Tour Help offers:

• Sunrise birdwatching tours
• Private paddle boat safaris
• Rainforest photography workshops

Contact us for an authentic wilderness escape!